diff --git a/selfdrive/car/car_helpers.py b/selfdrive/car/car_helpers.py
index bbef1d1136..ed82ba688d 100644
--- a/selfdrive/car/car_helpers.py
+++ b/selfdrive/car/car_helpers.py
@@ -80,6 +80,7 @@ def fingerprint(logcan, sendcan, has_relay):
       vin = cached_params.carVin
       car_fw = list(cached_params.carFw)
     else:
+      cloudlog.warning("Getting VIN & FW versions")
       _, vin = get_vin(logcan, sendcan, bus)
       car_fw = get_fw_versions(logcan, sendcan, bus)